Teachable Moments: What's in It for Us?

Andy Kaufman, PMP helps organizations around the world improve their ability to deliver projects and lead teams. His keynotes, workshops, and executive coaching services have reached tens of thousands of people from hundreds of companies, helping them deliver their projects, become more confident leaders, and deliver results. Andy is a certified trainer and author of "Navigating the Winds of Change: Staying on Course in Business & in Life, Shining the Light on The Secret" and an e-book entitled "How to Organize Your Inbox & Get Rid of E-Mail Clutter". He is the host of "The People and Projects Podcast", which provides interviews and insights to help listeners lead people and deliver projects. You can learn more at i-leadonline.com.

 

Teachable moments are formed when you have done something--regardless of the outcome--and learned from the experience. Learning makes us better at what we do and provides a great opportunity to develop others and sharpen skills. We’ve compiled our best Teachable Moments from our community members for you to learn from and share with other project managers.

“I can’t believe they think that’s a good decision.”

I was leading a team of truly talented software developers. We were good and we knew it. However, there were some organizational changes decreed from on high that didn’t make sense to us. In my youthful ignorance, I set up a meeting with a leader about three levels above me. He accepted the invitation.

I boldly explained how his recent announcements were upsetting people in the department. I went so far as to say, “Bob, you’re not making the ‘What’s in it for me’ clear.”

Bob was quiet at first. Then he responded with a statement I’ll never forget: “Andy, sometimes it’s not about you. It’s about ‘What’s in it for us.’”

Check. Mate.

I walked out of his office—humbled--learning a critical lesson.

Yes, explaining the “WIIFM” (the “What’s In It For Me”) is important when we communicate our plans…

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